You’re in the market for a new job – or maybe even a career change, but where do you start. With your network, of course. But don’t make a haphazard go-for-broke network blitz – give it your best shot. It’s as simple as A.B.C.
Assess Your Network
Evaluate your current network – it’s probably much more extensive than you realize. Everyone you know, personally and professionally is a part of your network. Take the time to write down a list of those key people you know from professional groups to social groups – yes, even the people you see at the gym every Thursday can be part of your network.
Build Relationships
Remember, networking isn’t about being pushy, arrogant, or a people user. It’s about building relationships, serving as much as receiving. It’s about being authentic in both sharing yourself and getting to know others. It’s a place to share from pertinent information to the humor that equalizes the day-to-day stresses of life. Implementing a networking lifestyle; connecting with and reaching out to others when things are great and again when they’re not so great builds the kind of relationships that make a difference in your job search.
Choose Wisely
Your network is broad. If you announce your job search to your entire network, you’re just another fish in the sea. Choose the key connections – you know, the people you would want to be your mentor, list as your reference, or seek for specific advice about your search. Look for network connections that have extended connections in your industry. These are the people with whom you want to share your career goals/ideals.
Don’t Ask for A Job
Yes, you heard us right – don’t ask for a job. Let them know you are looking for a change and seek their advice, insight, information. If they know of someone, they will share. If they have an opening in their organization and want to consider you, they will. The point is not to dump on pressure, but to open a door.
Evaluate Your Communication Skills
Your networking, and therefore your job search is only as effective as your communication skills. When sharing, be clear concise, and pay attention to your word choices, voice tone, and nonverbal skills. Facial expressions, eye contact, body movement, and gestures say as much, if not more than your words.
When listening, give the speaker your focused attention, show interest, and never interrupt. Your response will quickly indicate whether you listened.
Finding a new position or knowing where to begin a career change can be overwhelming. Add Springborn Staffing to your network. We have the industry knowledge, marketplace intelligence, and longstanding relationships to help you network yourself to that dream position. Contact us today.